Direct Measurement and Modeling of Wrapping Layer on Lubricant-Infused Surfaces.

ABSTRACT: By enabling an atomically smooth and chemically homogeneous interface, state-of-the-art lubricant-infused surfaces minimize contact line pinning, which directly translates to remarkable droplet mobility and ultralow drop friction. A unique feature of these surfaces is the formation of a wrapping layer─a nanometric lubricant film that encapsulates droplets. However, the mechanism that governs the formation of the wrapping oil layer and its thickness remains poorly understood to date. In this study, we develop and experimentally validate a theoretical modeling framework for the wrapping layer thickness by balancing two competing forces: curvature-induced Laplace pressure and van der Waals interaction-induced disjoining pressure. Using planar laser-induced fluorescence microscopy, we directly

SUBMITTER: Lee YJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12400268 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature